Deadwood commissioners fear creating 'party city'

DEADWOOD – Commissioners in Deadwood have voted against allowing open containers of alcohol on Main Street during weekends, fearing such a move would turn the western South Dakota gambling town into a party city.

The commissioners vote 3-2 against the measure Monday, despite recommendations by the city's chamber of commerce and its independent business club that there be a 30-day trial, the Rapid City Journal reported.

Gold Dust General Manager Peter DeMangus had proposed allowing Deadwood visitors to "enjoy a beer outside in the sunshine" from noon to 10 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

"This would create a little bit of atmosphere," he said. "It's not a game-changer for Deadwood. It's not going to hurt business. We'll see if it helps business."

Commissioner Gary Todd said most residents he talked to did not like the idea.

"It would create atmosphere, and I'm not sure it's the kind of atmosphere we want," Todd said.

Commissioner Georgeann Silvernail said Deadwood was a family oriented town and that the proposal was an attempt to make it "party city."

"The moment we open the door it's not just a crack, it's thrown wide open," Silvernail said.

DeMangus said the idea was at least worth a trial.

"I don't think we're party city and I don't think this will make us party city," he said. "If it's a complete mess, we'll just pull the plug on it."

The commission did approve allowing open containers of alcohol during special events in May and June.